Pope Benedict to resign: Report

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http://www.todayonline.com/world/europe/pope-benedict-resign-report

The 85-year-old Pope Benedict XVI said he will resign on Feb 28 because he no longer has the strength to fulfill the duties of his office, becoming the first pontiff since the Middle Ages to take such a step.

He also said that he had noticed that his strength had deteriorated over recent months "to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me".

"For this reason, and well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom I declare that I renounce the ministry of Bishop of Rome, Successor of Saint Peter," he said according to a statement from the Vatican.

The next Pope will likely be elected before Easter, according to a Vatican spokesman.